OH SNAP! What's gonna happen next!? *Quick note- I'm leaving the country tomorrow. No, I'm not on the run. I'm going on a work trip for the next 3 weeks. Don't worry! I will still be writing and updating. However, these next few days may be off schedule because I'll be jet-lagged.* Thank you for reading! -JNS <3
Saph POV My mind is swirling. All of my thoughts are pointing to the one thing that makes my stomach twist into knots. My wolf has been comfortable around Asher since we first met him. I’ve been dreaming about him. His touch literally sends shocks throughout my entire body. I hadn’t allowed myself to process one other thing…his scent. It is soothing and familiar. I take another deep inhale, focusing on the individual layers of how he smells. Asher slowly sits up in the bed, trying not to shift Ruby. His grip on my hand tightens, confirming what I’m thinking. “Cotton candy and leather,” I deadpan. His eyes widen, the bright copper ring telling me that his wolf is pressing to the surface. I pull my hand away from his and rush for the door. I hear him moving behind me and before I can open the door, I’m caged between his arms. “Please, don’t run. Let me explain,” he breathes against the back of my neck. I want to lean into him, I want h
Emmy POV It’s like no time has passed, that we never butted heads- which is putting it lightly- and have been avoiding each other for the last three months. It feels so good to have my sister back. Seeing Saph run around and play with all of us almost brings tears to my eyes.I never thought we would see this side of Saph again. After spending some time letting our wolves roll around and reconnect, we all make our way to the pack house and shift back to our human forms, getting dressed in the spare clothes we left by the back entrance. Vincenzo dislikes me walking around naked for anyone, but him, to see. I like teasing him during warrior training and take my time getting dressed after training in wolf form. It makes him act all growly and possessive, and it usually ends with me tied up and blindfolded in our bedroom. Oh, that man is the perfect blend of beast and gentleman. I slip on my sweatpants and hoodie, eager to escape the cold autumn weather. It fee
Grizz POV “Where are we going, Grizz? Why are we in the city? I thought you wanted to go to Red Mountain Pack,” Foster asks me. He’s my trusted second in command. He left Red Mountain Pack the same day Ash exiled me. He grew sick and tired of Ash’s soft spot and hated that we were uprooted to the United States. The only good thing that came from this is that we got involved with The Underground. I hated taking orders from that egotistical asshole, Bram, but it was a means to an end. Now that Bram is gone, I’m the up-and-coming kingpin, and I have big plans. “We are looking for her, Fost. The one who inspired this money-making scheme we are running,” I explain to him as we walk into the Take-A-Dive Bar. The Friday night rush of happy hour brings in a wave of people looking to make bad decisions. I’m just looking at the striking young woman behind the bar, racing around frantically while making drinks and scooping ice into glasses. “We came all this way for you to try to get
Asher POV I can’t breathe. I can’t move. “We’ve lost ten people, Ash,” Archie tells those of us that have congregated in an office in the hospital. I don’t need him to tell me. I felt the pack links break throughout the day and all night. I couldn’t sleep. Every time I tried to close my eyes, another link would break, another innocent life lost. I couldn’t bring myself to leave Ruby’s side. Somehow, my little princess is hanging on despite this dark magic flowing through her veins, but how much longer can she hang on? Archie had to drag me out of her room so we could have this fucking meeting. What’s there to meet about? My pack is dying and there’s nothing I can do. “What the fuck kind of magic is it?” Dare demands, looking like he’s ready to go to war. “Yaya said it’s blood magic. Some kind of potion, or poison, her brother created. But she doesn’t believe he would use this kind of magic willingly,” Archie says defensively.
Asher POV Artemis is rushed into a room in a private area of the hospital. I can only imagine the hysteria that would erupt if any of my pack members found out the guy who created the poison that’s killing their loved ones is here. “Alpha, he’s passed out and is not responding. He’s in pretty rough shape,” Alex, one of my doctors says as he hooks Artemis up to machines and monitors. “Chain him to the bed. He doesn’t escape this time,” I seethe. My fists are clenched so tight I can feel my fingernails threatening to pop off their nail beds. “P-please, don’t hurt him. He ran here. He’s been hurt,” Yaya mumbles from the corner of the room. Archie is still holding her back. “Let go!” Yaya shrieks, her magic flows out of her, stunning Archie and giving her enough space to wriggle free from his hold. She races to Artemis and grabs his hand just as the final silver cuff is closed around his wrist. Archie hisses, rubbing his head and shaking ou
Saph POV I’ve never considered myself a violent person. I'm teetering on the edge of killing this guy. Yes, he has been through some serious torture and manipulation. Hearing him accuse Asher of being anything but committed to the well-being of his daughter sent me into a level of rage that I’ve never experienced. “Do not question Asher’s commitment to his family! His daughter is in this hospital, dying from the very magic you created! Now, stop being difficult before I let him and his brother decapitate you in front of your sister.” I punched him. My fist is throbbing, and my knuckles are bleeding; I’d do it again. It’s not until I feel the familiar static, which I now know are the sparks of my bond with Asher, that I’m able to break out of my fury-filled stupor. “I’ve got it from here, Bunny,” he whispers in my ear. I hated that nickname the first few times he taunted me with it. Now, I am starting to adore it. My body automatically leans into his, wanting more
Saph POV Divide and conquer. It’s the only way we have a chance of saving as many lives as possible. Daya and Amy are paired off looking for half of the ingredient list, Emmy and Pearl are handling the other half. Darius, Vincenzo, Tobias, Lucas, Renz, and Logan are helping Asher and Archie to secure the perimeter. It’s only a matter of time before Grizz and his lackeys make their way here to attack Red Mountain Pack. Artemis mentioned Grizz has access to potions that help with concealment and who knows what else. Yaya and I are staying in the hospital, helping tend to the people who are still sick. Yaya is using small doses of magic to alleviate some of their pain. I’m making herbal teas and working to keep them hydrated. Darius also called Richard to come and help us out in the hospital. He arrived an hour ago, along with additional warriors from Running River Pack and Forza Pack. We finally make it to Ruby’s room. This girl amazes me with her strength. She’s barely five years
Syl POV A strained silence takes over my room. Saph looks like her eyes are about to pop out of her head. That Yaya girl is stiffer than a wooden plank, and she’s picking at her fingernails nervously. Brickland squeezes my head between both his hands; his touch is the only thing I want to focus on. Who knew it would take getting poisoned by a witch to get his attention? “You don’t mean that, Syl. You’re not in your right mind,” he says angrily. I want to melt into his touch. Why couldn’t this be how he had always held me? We see each other every day, we live together. Yet, he never sees me the way I see him. “Brickland’s right, Syl. We can’t do that. You’re not thinking clearly,” Saph jumps in, her dirty blonde hair hanging in a loose bun. She always has this I got ready in a rush look, which she pulls off so well. “I’m a grown adult, and my mind is perfectly clear. It’s you guys who aren’t thinking clearly. How else
Saph POV One Month Later “I’m just sayin’, bro, Archie is a very good name for a boy,” Archie jests as we make our way through the common area of the pack. Winter is in full force and the ground is covered in beautiful, white snow. Today is a mild day, without too much windchill. I wanted to take advantage of that and go for a walk. I’ve been getting stir crazy staying indoors. “Blame me, Archie. I vetoed that name on day one,” I toss back to my new brother-in-law. Archie fakes being offended, holding a hand to his chest and sucking in a gasp. “Oh stop. It’s her babies. She can name them whatever she wants. And let’s face it, the world can’t handle two Archibold Sorrens,” Yaya says as she swats her hand at Archie’s arm. He simply smiles at her and pulls her in close. “Bright Eyes, I don’t know what you’re suggestin’, but if we have a son, he’s gettin’ my name. That’s a done deal,” he retorts. It’s so hard to tell if he’s joking or not.
Chapter 70 Asher POV Fuck, my mate is sexy as fuck. Watching Saph ride my speaker- which is not a euphemism- was the hottest thing she’s done. Watching her shake and rattle from every note I played for her almost had me coming in my pants. I love how uninhibited she is around me and that we can be ourselves around each other. “Fuck me, Daddy,” she demands of me. I was already planning on doing just that. After her performance, my dick refuses to go to sleep until I combust inside of her. My impatient mate continues dominating my mouth with her tongue while undoing my pants. I appreciate the help. She grabs my cock and slowly lowers down on it. “Fuck, Bunny! I’m gonna blow from just havin’ the tip in. Your pussy is fuckin’ heaven!” I throw my head back, maintaining a firm grip on her ass. Saph continues lowering herself, sliding each inch of me into her pussy at a torturous pace. My dick is thumping, demanding I impale her and
Saph POV It’s twilight. Ruby’s birthday was perfect. Pearl did an amazing job helping me to plan it, down to the last detail. I didn’t miss how Asher spoke with her, and her spirit immediately shifted. He has not only helped me, but now he’s helped my sister too. I’ll forever be grateful for him, and how he fought for us before I even knew there was an us. “Sleep tight, Cupcake,” Asher whispers as I pull Ruby’s comforter up to her chin, making her cozy within her oversized bed. She yawns, hugging a pink teddy bear close to her body. “Goodnight, Papa. Goodnight, Saph.” Her words fade as she drifts off to sleep. I place a gentle kiss on the crown of her head. The pack house is quiet. Archie and Yaya are temporarily staying in the guest wing until their new home is built. It will be a few months until that’s finished. I slowly close Ruby’s door, holding my breath, careful not to make a sound, hoping she stays asleep. I slowly rel
Asher POV “Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday, Princess Ruby! Happy birthday to you! Hip, hip! Hooray!” The entire pack sings out to my daughter in the dining room of UGET. Sam and Cam wanted to host this special occasion and made all the food for tonight. Everyone is dressed for the occasion. It truly looks like an elegant ball. Saph and her sisters, well, mostly Pearl, took the lead on planning this party and the décor. Everyone takes to the middle of the dining room, which has been cleared out to become a giant dance floor. Temporary black and white, faux marble floors have been placed over the rustic hardwood. String LED lights hang down from the ceiling, looking like we are in a blue cavern. The floor has snowflake-shaped spotlights spinning around, highlighting the dancing pack members. The buffet tables are adorned with white tablecloths and mini-ice sculptures. It looks like a dreamy, Winter Wonderland. I walk up
Asher POV “I’m so glad that Daya and I have a son. There’s no way Calson will want a party like this. He’ll be perfectly content with a funny movie and microwave popcorn. Isn’t that right, little man?” Dare tickles baby Calson’s tummy, causing the plump pup to erupt into a fit of giggles. Fuck, I love the sound of a baby laughing. Dare is looking dapper in a black, velvet tuxedo jacket. The kicker is that he got to dress his baby. And, yup, the poor baby is also in a velvet suit. It wouldn’t be my fashion choice, but Calson does look adorable. “For fuck’s sake, Dare! Did you put him in a velvet diaper too?” Archie clucks, sipping his club soda. “Fuck you, Arch! What is it that your mate calls you? Mop Top? How about you keep your opinions to yourself. My son is the most handsome looking guy in this room. Not that he has much competition between you fucks,” Dare snaps, rocking his son, who is gnawing on one of his tiny fists, and drooling all over
Saph POV 1 Month Later “I can’t believe I’m wearing this. This is ridiculous,” Daya huffs, looking at herself in a full-length mirror in mine and Asher’s bedroom. I fully moved into the packhouse with him and Ruby. Not long after moving my things here, and officially joining Red Mountain Pack as their Luna, Ruby insisted that I help her plan ‘the best princess birthday party ever!’ She is too cute to say no to. And, given everything this pack- our pack- has been through, a large celebration is needed. With the theme of a princess party, Ruby demands that everyone be dressed as a prince or princess- tiaras, crowns, and all. Again, nobody has the heart, or the gall, to say no to her. Even Daya, who hates her frilly dress, is all too happy to appease my little princess. “I think you look adorable,” Pearl says sweetly, strutting ever-so-comfortably in her own gown. A beautiful champagne, sleeveless gown, with a fitted bodice and a ruffled A-line skirt. Her
Amy POV I feel bad interrupting Saph’s and Tatty Daddy’s tryst, but we are driving back to Running River Pack this afternoon. I want to talk with them about some things. “Come back later!” Asher shouts, clearly frustrated that I’m disturbing their sexy time. Oh well. I’m sure he and Saph will be happy once they are clued into the information I have. “Can’t do that brother-in-law,” I say cheerfully. “Amy?!” Saph squeals. My cheeks are aching from the stupid grin that I’m sporting. I’m not a fan of cock-blocking, or box-blocking, but this is important. “Yea, sis. Just wanted to have a quick chat with you two before I head back home,” I maintain my overly sweet tone while twisting my torso as if I’m a little kid asking for permission. I mean, I’m the same size as one, so might as well lean into the role, right? “Remind me to pummel your sister after this,” Asher mutters, but not lowly enough for my werewolf he
Saph POV We should be working. There is so much paperwork and reorganizing that we need to do, but how can I think of anything besides Asher’s body on top of mine right now? This man brings out a freaky side of me that I love exploring with him. Watching him throw his computer and supplies off his desk makes me drip with need. “Asher! You’re crazy!” I laugh as I watch the formerly neat stack of papers litter the office floor. “Crazy for you and your pussy, Bunny,” he growls into the shell of my ear, sucking my lobe between his teeth. I moan, arching my back into his chest, feeling his long, smooth cock press between my ass. How this man is hard and ready to go again is a medical mystery to me. I know werewolves rebound fast, but this is impressive. “You want it, Bunny? You want me to bend you over this desk, shove myself deep inside you and fuck you until you can’t walk?” He thrusts his hips into me, grinding himself against my backside, our bodi
Asher POV Humans have an interesting way of thinking about trauma. I see all of these inspirational quotes, usually accompanied with kittens hanging on a tree branch; they all send the same message. Bounce back. It’s all going to be okay in the end. Some would argue that I bounced back after Portia’s death. And I did, to an extent. But I didn’t bounce back to where I was. Maybe this is the scientist in me, seeing things too literally, but I didn’t really bounce back. That would require that day to have never happened. I bounced forward, after rolling in the darkest, and thickest mud. It took Archie beating the shit out of me and reminding me that just because Portia’s life ended, mine didn’t. It took me realizing that Ruby still had one parent, and I was doing a shitty job at being even a decent father. A couple of months ago, my life was bippity bopping along, and then Saph crashed into me. I saw her and I knew her pain better than anyone else. She was s